California - Los Angeles to San Diego 

What she thought

Ahhhh California. The lights of LA, the surfers on the beach, the sun setting over the Pacific.  My trip with Jason to Cali was not my first.  It was kinda fun already knowing my way around and being able to take him places. We rented a car at LAX and hit the road. We had a lot of ground to cover in a short time (Jason isn't a fan of this strategy but that's how I usually roll). We did all the usual things-  drive around LA, see the Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills and all of the Hills..., Malibu, Disneyland, Laguna Beach and San Diego. Whew..  I'll talk more in detail about each place in the pics. If you are interested in some more great places to go, to stay and to eat at in Southern Cali, visit my cousin Dana's site at www.whatsupwithDana.com. She loves that place!!

What he thought

There are a few things about California that I will never forget!  Firstly, the aroma.  I am careful here to use the word 'aroma' instead of 'smell' because it doesn't smell bad but the place has a very noticeable and very distinct scent that I couldn't shake the entire time we were there.  It's an earthy kind of minerally sort of aroma -- not really unpleasant but definitely unexpected and curious.

The other thing I will never forget is the view of the valley from the Hollywood Hills.  The only thing I can compare it to is the view of Paris from the Eiffel Tower, but it's not a fair comparison as each experience is uniquely exquisite.  The view from the hills at night was my favorite experience.


I love Disney.  However, I do not consider myself a Disney 'super-fan.'  I love the man's vision and I have tremendous respect for the artistry and engineering.  Something that has always confused me about Disney's California parks was their puny castle.  I have always wondered why they don't tear that sucker down and make it as extravagant as the one in Florida, Paris or Japan.  If you ask a local, the idea is abhorrent and after visiting I had an epiphany.  I understand now that this place has a certain whimsical charm that is unique amongst all the Disney resorts.  The magic and majesty of Disneyland California has a new fan in me and if they ever change that castle I'll line up with the rest of the protesters because it is a very special place and altering it would be a travesty!